When the 2019 bushfires ravaged Australia’s landscapes, Claire Smith didn’t just watch from the sidelines – she acted.
Mobilising a grassroots fundraising campaign, she raised over $600,000 to support more than 50 wildlife rescue groups.
Claire embodies the values and spirit of the Sunshine Coast Biosphere, and her fierce determination has now earned her the title of 2025 Sunshine Coast Biosphere Community Awards Citizen of the Year.
Founder of Wildlife Rescue Sunshine Coast, Claire is a tireless advocate for native animals.
She established Queensland’s first dedicated kangaroo hospital and is currently leading a $5 million fundraising campaign to build a Koala Conservation Centre.
Her work extends beyond rescue. Claire also educates communities, advises governments on wildlife policy and writes children’s books for those experiencing trauma, donating them through her Lionhearted Foundation.
Recently named Queensland’s Local Hero for 2025 in the Australian of the Year Awards, Claire uses her growing platform to push for national habitat preservation.
“We can’t just keep putting band-aids on wildlife. We need to protect the places they call home,” Claire said.
Claire’s impact is felt across the Sunshine Coast and beyond. Her leadership, compassion and unwavering commitment to conservation make her a beacon of hope in a time of ecological challenges.
Claire was one of 140 nominees recognised at the 2025 Sunshine Coast Biosphere Community Awards, held at Maroochy RSL on 20 June.
The awards celebrate individuals and organisations who embody the values of the UNESCO-designated Sunshine Coast Biosphere – celebration, participation, innovation and belonging.
Nominees were recognised across eight categories for their generous contributions to the health of our planet, our people, the arts and business.
Award recipients were selected by a panel of judges from the Sunshine Coast Biosphere Community Advisory Group, Unitywater, Sunshine Coast Broadcasters and University of the Sunshine Coast.
Sunshine Coast Mayor Rosanna Natoli said the nominees were the backbone of our community and our region was a better place thanks to their contribution, leadership, dedication and passion.
“These awards are not only a great way to pause, acknowledge and celebrate the outstanding achievements of those already making a contribution, they also serve to inspire others to make the small changes that really make a difference,” Mayor Natoli said.
“We all have a role to play in ensuring our region continues to be a wonderful place to live, work and play and our nominees are a shining example of how each of us can contribute to a more sustainable Sunshine Coast.”
Award recipients:
Citizen of the Year
Claire Smith – Wildlife Rescue hero
Senior Citizens of the Year:
– Dr Ken Wishaw (Yandina Creek) – pioneering anaesthetist and dark sky advocate
– Tony Long (Currimundi) – visionary community builder and volunteer
Young Citizen of the Year:
– Finley Coll (Buderim) – disability advocate and accessibility leader
Community Group or Organisation:
– Bamboo Projects (Mooloolaba) – mental health and environmental charity
– ECOllaboration (Nambour) – conservation and sustainability leaders
Biosphere Business of the Year:
– Aqua Ubique (Birtinya) – innovators in atmospheric water generation
Creative Arts Award:
– Lyndon Davis (Bli Bli) – Kabi Kabi cultural leader and artist
Healthy Planet Award:
– TurtleCare Sunshine Coast – marine turtle conservation program
Healthy People Award:
– Disabled Surfers Association Sunshine Coast – inclusive surf experiences
